SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: From Adversity to Aspiration: The Story of Andrew Alcaraz

Born on April 6, 2007, in Champaign, Illinois, Andrew’s journey began with a fight for his life. Just a newborn, he faced a life-threatening bowel obstruction that required three major surgeries and the removal of half his colon. At only a few weeks old, he was flown in a medical helicopter with both of his parents terrified by the possibility of losing their youngest son. But Andrew pulled through, spending two long weeks in the hospital and leaving with not only a scar across his stomach but an unshakable spirit of resilience and perseverance that has defined his life ever since.

That spirit of perseverance didn’t end in the NICU—it carried through every chapter of Andrew’s life. After two years in Illinois, his family relocated to Kalamazoo in search of better opportunities, a trait that runs in the family. Both of his parents attended medical school in the Philippines (originally where they’re from) before moving to the U.S. to begin their careers. Their work ethic, ambition, and sacrifices are the foundation of Andrew’s own aspirations.

Growing up the youngest of three boys, Andrew jokingly carries the title of “golden boy,” especially since his older brothers went off to college. But beneath the teasing, there’s a strong bond—his family is close-knit, constantly spending time together traveling internationally, playing tennis, spending summers up North on the lake, or just having fun in a casual game of Spoons. “It gets competitive sometimes,” he laughs, “but it’s always fun.”

Education has been another arena where Andrew’s perseverance shines. He attended St. Monica until sixth grade before transferring to St. Augustine for seventh and eighth, and now he’s closing out his high school years as a standout student and athlete at Hackett. As a member of SLT and NHS, Andrew has demonstrated leadership and academic excellence, while also maintaining a passion for tennis. Balancing school and athletics is no joke, and his ability to do both at a high level is beyond impressive. Andrew has earned himself an All-State Honorable Mention and two regional titles over his four years. His freshman year also saw him on the basketball team, showcasing his all-around athleticism.

In his free time, Andrew is a lake guy through and through. Whether it’s wake surfing, tubing (he claims “professional tuber” status), or just relaxing with friends like Jude, Graham, Preston, and Ty, he knows how to live in the moment. He also loves spending time with his dogs, Honey and  Piper, and you can catch them on his Snapchat story once in a blue moon. Andrew spends a lot of time listening to music, especially Drake and SZA, who are his two favorite artists. He says, “I went to a Drake concert when his album ‘Scorpion’ debuted, and it was the best concert I’ve been to.”

But beneath the laid-back persona is a serious student with a clear goal: to pursue medicine. With plans to major in Biology at Hope College on a pre-med track, Andrew knows the road ahead won’t be easy. “I’m a little nervous,” he says honestly, “but I’m excited for this next step in my future.”

That mindset—grounded in realism but fueled by grit—is what defines Andrew. His role models are his parents, especially his father, whose path wasn’t perfect but still lived out his dream. It’s his story of progress, imperfection, and perseverance that resonates most with Andrew. “As long as I work hard, I can persevere through anything,” he says.

Ty Brand, one of Andrew’s close friends, puts it best: “Andrew’s the kind of guy to make sure all of his friends are taken care of.” He’s reserved, yet funny; calm, yet capable of stepping out of his comfort zone. He admires determination, emulates his mother's perfectionism, and carries with him a deep-rooted sense of purpose.

His future dreams? To become a doctor, travel the world, live on a lake property in Michigan, and maybe own a couple properties somewhere sunny—Florida, the Carolinas, or Arizona. But wherever he ends up, one thing’s for certain: Andrew will get there not because it’s easy but because he’s never been afraid of the hard road.

In the summer, Andrew had two jobs—serving ice cream at Ritter’s and working as part of the “Red Crew” at USTA (tennis) Nationals. This balance of responsibility and ambition speaks volumes about his work ethic. “It’s not always easy,” he admits, “but if I work hard, I know I can get through anything.”